Spain 3-0 Croatia: La Roja Too Strong for Modrić and Co.

Following my analysis of Spain, I was fully expecting them to beat Croatia in a tight affair. This match was an end to end high intensity game which was thoroughly entertaining. Spain have certainly come to Euros 2024 with one thing on their mind, crowning themselves champions of Europe.

Morata Silences the Critics

De la Fuente's decision to back the inconsistent Álvaro Morata came to fruition as he netted his side's opener. A delightful centre-back splitting pass by Fabián played the skipper through on goal who calmly slotted it past Livaković. Despite his critics, Morata is currently the joint third highest Euros goalscorer of all time alongside Alan Shearer and Antoine Griezmann on 7 goals. Morata will surely keep his place for Spain's next crucial match against Italy in match day 2.

Yamal Terrorises the Croatian Defence

Prior to the match, frustratingly, I hadn't seen much of Lamine Yamal in action for FC Barcelona. I was excited to see him perform, particularly following some pundits stating that he could be the next Lionel Messi - a comparison that shouldn't be made lightly. Yet, Yamal put on a solid display against Croatia, proving a tough day at the office for Joško Gvardiol.

The 16-year-old put up some superb numbers. He completed 3 successful dribbles, delivered 3 key passes and had an xGI of 0.86. He also provided an inch perfect cross for the unlikely Dani Carvajal to convert home for Spain's third goal. Italy, Albania and any other team should find a way to limit Yamal's threat as he will continue to be one of Spain's many jokers in their deck.

Croatia Perhaps Unlucky?

Despite the scoreline, Croatia put up a valiant effort against La Roja. On multiple occasions, they found ways round Spain's press, allowing Modrić and Kovačić to play defence splitting passes into the final attacking third. Croatia's 16 shots on goal produced 5 saves from Unai Simón including a penalty save that could've produced a nervy final 10 minutes for la Roja. Croatia's xG of 2.38 surpassed that of their opponent's 2.01, highlighting Spain's clinical nature when the moment arose. Additionally, Marc Cucurella who, similar to Morata, faced criticism and doubts over his spot in. the team prior to the match, produced a superb last ditch block to maintain the Spanish clean sheet.

Remarkably, Croatia ended Spain's run of 136 competitive matches where La Roja had more possession than their rival going back to the Euros 2008 final - a monster statistic (source: X - @dermotmcorrigan). Yet despite having 53% possession, Croatia just could not convert their chances.

The Group of Death does not Disappoint

Group B looks set to be an intriguing one. Italy's 2-1 win over Albania was not convincing, suggesting Gli Azzurri will need to up their game when they face La Roja next. For Spain, more of the same in a fixture which could give them confirmation of qualification into the Last 16.

For Croatia, a slightly easier match on paper of Albania is the ideal game for them to pick themselves back up. Yet beware! Albania showed their potency last night after 31 seconds. This suggests the Kockasti can't go into the game thinking the 3 points will automatically be theirs.